keep in mind is that I will take off points if it is too far from the original, though.

In a remix, the entire point is to ensure there is a NOTICABLE change. Basic rules of remixing: change the tempo, change the key and definitely add your own taste. In my remix you’ll be able to significantly identify the song in which I’m remixing, but also a strong change in all parts of the song. Will that be okay? Or should I try to keep it a lot closer to the original?